AboutHeather Vandeburg Expertise I can answer any questions about Acupuncture, Chinese Herbals, Tuina (Chinese massage, Cupping, and Gua Sha. I can answer questions about Qi, Meridians, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory. I can answer how these different modalities can benefit different conditions.
Experience I have a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practice in DeKalb IL. I have been practicing TCM since 2002. I have given many lectures and classes on the subject of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Women’s Health, Nutrition and Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation. This Includes speaking at an International Conference for the United Leukodystrophy Foundation.
Organizations AAOM, NCCAOM, CCAOM, ILAAOM
Publications Women Today, ILAAOM website,
Education/Credentials Master degree in Oriental Medicine, Bachelor degree in Nutrition, Bachelor degree in Biological Sciences. I am lisensed and board certified in Acupuncture. I did an advanced internship at Guang Zhou University in Guang Zhou China.
Awards and Honors I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine
Expert: Heather Vandeburg Date: 3/30/2008 Subject: barefoot doctor school
Question I'm interested in studying Chinese medicine at some point, but am not really too inclined towards a professional career...plus I'm concerned about the expense of the education. Basically, I'd like to acquire skills to take care of myself and other people.
So, I was excited to stumble upon a website (acucollege.com) for a "Barefoot Doctor" school in Oklahoma. The school has relatively short programs in acupuncture, Chinese herbology, massage, reflexology, essential oils, aromatherapy....
So, I'd like your opinion about the value of such programs. Do you think it would be worthwhile for someone who is seriously interested in healing and practicing medicine? I realize it wouldn't lead to licensure.
Answer Hi Josh,
I am not familiar with the Barefoot Doctor school in OK. I think that learning some acupuncture points to work on yourself is ok. The problem is diagnosis. The TCM diagnosis system is pretty indepth. Acupuncture is self regulating and you can do little harm except, if you don't know anatomy and puncture an organ. I think that herbal medicine is not something to take in a weekend course. Chiropractors learn their acupuncture in a few courses and they are allowed by most states to practice so why can't you. If your going to practice on more people than yourself and your family I would suggest that you take the full course work. It is definitely worth it. And the the 3-4 year program really only scratches the surface of true TCM healing. My wish is to have the most educated and experienced Acupuncturists out there working on people.
